Ancient Church, Necropolis Discovered in Bulgaria's Veliko Tarnovo

A precious golden ring was discovered near the ancient curch "St. Ivan Rilski" by the team of Bulgaria's archaeologist Nikolay Ovcharov in the city of Veliko Tarnovo. Photo by Nadya Kotseva (Sofia Photo Agency)

A church, built in 13th century was unearthed by the team of Bulgaria's prominent archaeologist Nikolay Ovcharov in the city of Veliko Tarnovo.

The temple, called "St. Ivan Rilski", is the place where the relics of the saint were once saved before being sent to the Rila Monastery.

"It took us a month to find the church. Unfortunately, it is not completely preserved but even the remains could show us its magnificence," Ovcharov said.

Near the temple the scientists discovered a unique necropolis, where only aristocrats are supposed to have been buried.

A golden ring with a two-head eagle as well as numerous silver coins, jewelry and ceramic utensils were also found at the site.

"The bird on the ring was a symbol of the dignity of the Orthodox countries rulers in 14th century, which reveals it belonged to a boyar," the archaeologists commented.